Pickup Truck Review: GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid 2016

The last thing you’d probably associate with the word hybrid is pickup truck. The combination is odd to say the least primarily because the former word is linked by media and marketers to compact cars. But the GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid hopes to rise to the challenge.

On the outside, the car looks like the ultimate ride for the bad big boys with is imposing grille and plenty of LED lights, which are found on the fog lamps, tail lamps, and headlamps. The lights, on the other hand, have been pre-programmed to be sensitive to the vehicle’s surroundings—that is, it can turn high-beam headlamps on if the area’s too dark and immediately shuts or tapers off when there’s enough bright light.

LED lights also line the bed of the truck to illuminate the space properly. The new car also offers drivers with three bed designs depending on the vehicle’s specific use, although all will have remote locking tailgate, several pairs of tie-down hooks, and rear bumper with holds, among others.

Leather with aluminum accents is the central theme of the interiors. From the seats to the wheel handles, leather adds decadence to the design. Seats are also expected to be comfortable with the dual padding. Technology is also another highlight of the vehicle as it’s equipped with a WiFi hotspot, USB ports, and a wireless charging pad.

The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid is also expected to have plenty of storage space inside as under-seat storage is available for SLT and SLE models. Moreover, the dashboard compartment can accommodate majority of business supplies and equipment including a laptop.

As for performance, the car positions itself as quiet since it has the ability to cancel out outside noise and lowers its own vibrations and running engine sounds. Speaking of engines, this will be equipped with an EcoTec 5.3L V8 engine, which is usually provided to full-size pickup, although this one considers itself as light duty.

It also picks up where the 2015 model has left off. The latest generation offers the same best mileage with 18 for city driving and 24 for highway. It slightly better compared to Nissan Frontier, which currently ranks #8 in terms of best gas mileage trucks by Autobytel.com, in this department.

The full-size pickup truck, which shares the same features as Chevrolet Silverado, is also voted as one of the safest trucks to drive by Autobytel.com with technologies such as Available Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and Intelligent Brake Assist. There are also rear-view cameras found at the rear. Drivers can also take advantage of the OnStar Guidance Plan, which is available as a free trial within the next 6 months with features like turn-by-turn navigation and automatic crash response. If it’s any indication, the 2015 model received a 5-star crash rating.

While pickup trucks are often used for commerce and other non-personal use, with these types of features and fuel economy, the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 can fit for anyone who wants a pleasant, quiet, and safe ride.